MANSFIELD, Ohio — Smokin’ Bros BBQ has parked its business at 1041 Park Avenue West, for good.
Co-owners Dan and Denise Coy have moved their operation inside the establishment that also houses Empress Express.
Smokin’ Bros originally operated from a food truck, which would sit in the Empress Express parking lot when it wasn’t at special events. Dan said they wanted to see how that location on Park Avenue West would work out before staying there permanently.
“We were confident that our food would be well-received. We weren’t confident in the specific market location, he said. “Things worked out very well for us here, and as a result, we started this build-out.”
The Coys opened the new space for business Dec. 23.
Lee Gray and his wife Jesselyn were among those who visited on opening day for a bite to eat. Lee, a resident of Shelby, said he’s frequented Smokin’ Bros since it opened in 2013.
“I usually work way my over here as an excuse to stop by,” he said with a laugh.
Dan said the business is blessed to have such great customers. And to help make sure the customers are taken care of, they’re focusing on making the permanent location a success before redeploying the two mobile trucks.
“I think it’s very important to do things right, instead of rush it,” he said. “And it’s important to us to take care of our customers and make sure that the quality of the food stays excellent.”
He said the operation intends to have the food trucks in use again in the spring for special events. He added they may offer some meals near Mansfield Lahm Regional Airport.
“They’re kind of off-the-beaten track and we’ve heard they’re looking for some place that they can get a quick, good lunch,” he said.
To find out where the trucks will be, check out the business’ Facebook and Twitter pages.
Smokin’ Bros serves baby back ribs, pulled pork, beef brisket, macaroni and cheese, smokin’ baked beans, coleslaw, and banana pudding.
Dan said they’re planning on incorporating chicken into the menu on a more regular basis and are going to add a few more sides, including creamed corn, cornbread, greens, and chunky applesauce.
Smokin’ Bros is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 7 p.m.
“We are planning on being open seven days a week,” Dan said.
